Blogs

Blogs

ASCOconnection.org is a forum for the exchange of views on topical issues in the field of oncology. The views expressed in the blogs, comments, and forums belong to the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Please read the Commenting Guidelines.

Clinical trials are the pathway to better treatments, better outcomes, and a future without cancer. We, as investigators, need to believe in them, and be willing to offer them to all patients who are eligible.

Dr. Barbara K. Rimer explains that actions recently highlighted by the President’s Cancer Panel are aligned with ASCO’s recommendation that patients be informed about the costs of care as part of the treatment decision-making process.

It is important to recognize that some of our patients lead chaotic lives. We need to be careful of judging them and labeling them as non-compliant. They are usually just trying their best under difficult or even impossible situations.

Dr. Raj Mohan considers the concept of trust, and notes that what many patients will remember is how you made them feel comfortable as a human being, understood them, and stayed with them through their ups and downs.

A trial of aqueous lidocaine to manage painful intercourse for breast cancer survivors was a small study with a great magnitude of benefit. Do we need to wait for more data, or can we start applying these findings for our patients today?

Health care providers have a tendency to talk a lot; we are trained to ask questions, to give information, to provide advice and guidance. But if we just stop and let the silence fill the room we can learn so much from our patients.

I was her doctor, and my job was to give my opinion, even if it could not be backed by any data, and then to respect hers. After all, there was only one person walking this road of cancer, and it was my job to make that road easier.

Being deliberate about creating diverse and inclusive teams is not about optics and good PR. It is the right thing to do to make sure our patients get the best possible care. Every hand is needed, and everyone has something valuable to contribute.